System design
A water filtration system is not a one size fits all solution. Every water supply requires tailored treatment which has function, flexibility and durability built into its design.
Step one
Water testing
Step two
System design
Step three
Collaboration
FIRST
Water testing
Every water supply will contain different forms, concentrations and combinations of contaminants; both chemical and microbiological. In order to design an effective treatment plan, water testing is conducted to find out exactly what parameters are outside safe and acceptable levels. While there may be one or two key concerns that are obvious to the eye prior to testing, there can be invisible issues that if overlooked can reduce the efficiency of the design and add to costs if modifications are required later down the line. Once the test results come back, we can analyse the chemistry and start designing a solution.
SECOND
System design
Successful system design requires planning, strategy and attention to detail. So, what factors are considered in the design process?
Source yield
No water source is infinite, so understanding the limits of your supply is crucial to building a system that is viable all year round. By gauging how much water is readily available and the average capacity of the source, we can evaluate whether system components such as water storage tanks will be necessary to deliver a robust and reliable supply.
Water quality
The quality of your water supply is predominantly assessed on its chemical and microbiological content, as well as the taste, smell and general appearance of the water. As water contaminants can exist in various forms, concentrations and combinations, water tests are conducted to identify exactly what your water contains. From there, we design a system that is tailored to solve the problems that are unique to your supply.
Water pressure
Power showers are one of life’s little luxuries and they don’t have to be a feature exclusive to mains supplied properties. Water pressure is dependent on a number of factors, including source location, the configuration and condition of pipework and the structure of your system (e.g., direct supply vs use of a water storage tank). An understanding of both the current and desired water pressure whilst designing a system is crucial to its success. Aside from making sure we can provide customers with a water pressure tailored to their preference, it ensures that the minimum pressure requirements are met for the water filtration equipment, as many filtration units have a specified water pressure range in which they work most effectively.
Peak flow rate
Every piece of water filtration equipment requires a minimum amount of contact time with the water in order for the treatment to be effective. The typical concern is water moving too quickly through the system, so the peak flow rate needs to be factored into the overall design. For new systems, peak flow rate will impact the size and type of filtration equipment recommended for the design, whereas existing systems may require modification to control the flow rate.
Existing equipment
Designing an upgrade to an existing system comes with a unique set of challenges when compared to constructing an entirely new one. Optimising existing equipment, re-configuring the layout and plugging in new components can add complexity to the process and require extra consideration. Modifications aim to enhance what already exists, problem solving current shortfalls to create a dependable and safe supply.
System location
The location of a system needs to be practical, accessible and well thought through. For example, the amount of available space will place boundaries on the size of equipment that can be used, alongside the overall configuration which will need to allow room for future servicing. All systems (however basic) need access to electricity, while more complex systems will often also require access to a drainage outlet. Systems placed outside will require an insulated enclosure to protect the system from exposure to the elements and interference from wildlife. Connecting the system to existing infrastructure may require groundwork to lay new pipes or the reconfiguration of previously installed components. On a broader level, location planning needs to ensure that the site is accessible for both installation and ongoing maintenance.
Usage demands
Whether you’re a keen gardener in the summer, planning a second story extension or hoping to host the family for the next big bank holiday weekend, you need a water system that can cope with fluctuating demand and periods of increased water usage. When designing a system, some of the key factors we consider are the number of properties the system will supply, the size of these properties, maximum occupancy, the number of water outlets and the expected usage requirements. This information helps to determine what equipment specifications are required for the design, including the model and size.
Equipment specification
Every piece of equipment is selected based on calculations, research, and a wealth of industry experience. We’ve also spent years cultivating relationships with our suppliers, regularly consulting with them to create successful systems that have the capability, capacity and durability to meet expectations and sustain an optimal level of performance.
Occasionally, the best solution isn’t always clear. In these circumstances, trialling treatment techniques on a small scale is a necessary part of the design process. This means we can then move forward with confidence in our design solution.
Budget
First and foremost, our aim is to create water filtration systems that reliably deliver safe potable water which meets regulatory standards. However, we understand that budget plays a role in any system design. Where possible, we aim to give our customers a couple of design options that come at different price points, but we’re always happy to explain the rationale behind our designs and discuss alternative, more budget friendly options if there are any.
Important to note: financial help to cover the costs of getting your private water supply up to safe standards can be sought through government grants (subject to eligibility requirements).
Future maintenance
All water filtration systems require regular servicing in order to sustain system performance and optimise longevity. The maintenance schedule will vary depending on the equipment in the system and the quality of the water, however we always discuss the maintenance plans and costs upfront so there aren’t any surprises later on. Not only does maintenance have to be built into the budget, but into the available space. We’ve seen too many systems crammed into unconventional locations; designs that have failed to think about the space needed to access equipment, replace parts or clean interior components. We plan ahead so that convenience is built in.
Alternative solutions
Water testing provides a snapshot of the water quality at a particular moment in time, and while it can provide a clear indication of what filtration your water needs, there can be natural fluctuations and changes at the water source that mean the outcome of water filtration isn’t as expected. This risk is lowered by building safety margins into the design and having back-up plans ready to go, just in case. There’s nothing wrong with incorporating a plan B into plan A.
THIRD
Collaboration
Once the system has been designed, we’ll send over an estimate that details the design specifications, maintenance requirements and the estimated total cost. We’re always happy to answer any questions, discuss any concerns and make any necessary revisions to the plan. Once we get the go ahead, we’ll get the deposit sorted and a date booked in.